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Definition Motivational interviewing is a goal-oriented counseling approach that helps individuals explore and resolve ambivalence about changing their behavior. It is a collaborative process where the interviewer works with the client to identify and strength...

Definition The motor cortex is a region of the brain located in the frontal lobe that plays a crucial role in controlling voluntary muscle movements. It is responsible for planning, initiating, and executing intentional actions, such as walking, talking, or re...

Definition The Multiple Intelligences Theory is a framework proposed by psychologist Howard Gardner in 1983. It suggests that intelligence is not a single, general ability but consists of multiple distinct types of cognitive competencies. Gardner identified ei...

Definition Negative punishment in operant conditioning refers to a behavior modification technique where a favorable stimulus or privilege is removed following an undesired action, with the goal of reducing the occurrence of that behavior. Example A student fr...

Definition Negative reinforcement is a concept in operant conditioning where a behavior is strengthened by the removal of an unpleasant or aversive stimulus. In simpler terms, when someone does something that results in the removal of something uncomfortable o...

Neurodevelopmental Disorders Neurodevelopmental disorders are conditions that originate in the development of the brain. These disorders affect how the brain grows and functions, impacting cognitive, learning, emotional, social, and behavioral development. The...

Definition A neuron is a specialized cell in the nervous system that transmits information through electrical and chemical signals. Neurons are often called "the building blocks of the brain" because they form networks that allow us to process thoughts, memori...

Definition Plasticity, also known as neuroplasticity, refers to the ability of the human nervous system to adapt and change in response to experiences, learning, or injury. It involves the modification of neural pathways and connections within the brain, allow...

Definition A neurotransmitter is a chemical messenger in the brain that allows neurons (specialized cells) to communicate with each other by crossing the tiny gap between them called a synapse. These chemicals play a crucial role in transmitting signals that r...

Definition A neutral stimulus is a stimulus that does not naturally elicit a specific response from an organism. In psychology, particularly in classical conditioning, a neutral stimulus is initially irrelevant or inconsequential until it becomes associated wi...

Definition Nociception is the process by which the body detects potentially harmful stimuli, such as intense heat, sharp objects, or chemical irritants, and sends signals to the brain. These signals are transmitted by specialized nerve cells called nociceptors...

Definition Non-associative learning refers to a type of learning process where an organism learns about a single stimulus or event without forming associations between different stimuli or events. Unlike associative learning (e.g., classical conditioning), non...

Definition Nonmaterial culture refers to the intangible aspects of a society that include shared beliefs, values, customs, behaviors, and practices. Unlike material culture, which consists of physical objects like tools, clothing, or buildings, nonmaterial cul...

Definition Nonverbal social interaction refers to the way people communicate and connect without using spoken or written words. It involves body language, facial expressions, gestures, eye contact, tone of voice, and other nonverbal cues that convey messages, ...

Definition    Normative social influence refers to the tendency of people to adjust their behavior, attitudes, or beliefs to fit in with a group or society. It occurs when individuals conform to meet the expectations of others or gain acceptance and approval. ...

Definition A nuclear family is a family unit consisting of two parents (typically a mother and father) and their biological children living together under one roof. It is considered the most common family structure in many societies, emphasizing close familial...

Definition A statement that there is no effect or no relationship between variables. Example A researcher is examining the impact of two distinct teaching methods on student comprehension. The researcher develops a hypothesis that one method will have a grea...

Definition Obedience in psychology refers to a behavior where an individual follows the commands or instructions of an authority figure, even if those actions go against their personal judgment or desires. It involves conforming to rules, orders, or demands fr...

Definition Object permanence is a cognitive milestone in child development where an infant learns to understand that objects continue to exist even when they cannot be seen, heard, or touched. Before this understanding develops, babies may appear confused or u...

Definition Observational learning is a process where individuals acquire knowledge, skills, or behaviors by watching and imitating others, often referred to as models. This type of learning occurs when someone attentively observes a model's actions, retains th...